Collection of Artist Liu Kang, Singapore (gifted directly from the artist) Thence by descent to the present owner
Catalogue Essay
Lee Man Fong was three years old when his family emigrated to Singapore. Growing up, he was trained in the Lingnan style of Chinese brush painting, and oil painting. In 1932, Lee moved to Jakarta to become an editor of a Chinese newspaper, and eventually took up painting full time.
At that time, Bali served as an inspiration for many important artists such as Rudolf Bonnet and Miguel Covarrubias. In 1941, Lee went to Bali for the first time and spent several months there. This trip proved instrumental in the development of his characteristic use of rich colours, and rendering of everyday scenes. Thereafter, the artist continued to hold successful solo exhibitions in Indonesia. In 1949, the artist was awarded a scholarship to paint in the Netherlands, and eventually attaining recognition through various exhibitions in Europe. Lee’s illustrious career reached a high point during his stint as Palace Artist in President Sukarno’s Palace from 1961 to 1966.
It was during circa late 1960s to 1980s that Lee Man Fong and Singaporean artist Liu Kang were deeply involved in the same art circle, and the present lot was gifted during their friendship. Liu Kang was a founding member and President of the Singapore Arts Society and is credited with developing the Nanyang style of painting. Similarly, it was a historic trip to Bali in 1952, which enabled artists Liu Kang and his peers to crystallise the aesthetic characteristics of the Nanyang style of painting.
The friendship between Liu and Lee undoubtedly ignited influences on each other’s artistic development, as the both artists concerned themselves with creating a distinct artistic language for the region. From 1967 onwards, Lee Man Fong stayed in Singapore for the next twenty years, and held high profile solo exhibitions, returning to Jakarta in 1986. Lee’s multicultural exposure contribute to his talent as one of the greatest pioneers of Southeast Asian Art.